Streets categorisation proposed

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority is proposing the categorising of streets in urban conservation areas into four classes depending on the architectural value, quality and condition of buildings’ facades.

The proposals were this morning presented to several non-governmental organisations for consultation and next week they will be presented to local councils.

Mepa is proposing dividing the streets in urban conservation areas categories A, B+, B or C. A would include streets with the highest quality buildings with strong historical value and unique architecture (like churches and convents) and C the lowest quality where there has been some form of redevelopment but where there is still an element of quality architecture.

The categorisation was done on a street basis except when specific buildings, like chapels, deserved an A classification. The categories deal with facades and do not go into the buildings’ interiors.

Streets that fall in categories A will be protected against changes in facades and no additional floors can be constructed. In the case of B+ buildings, the facade will remain untouched but additional floors may be considered and in B buildings minor alterations to the facade may also be considered. In the case of C classifications, buildings may be considered for demolition but the replacement building must respect the rest of the streetscape.

The categorisation of looks into urban conservation areas in four of Malta’s local plans: the South Malta Local Plan, the Marsaxlokk Bay Local Plan, the Central Malta Local Plan and the North West Local Plan. Mepa chairman Austin Walker explained that this categorisation – that was included in the local plans for Gozo and the North Harbour – will provide tools for enforcement and continuity in the processing of applications.